Results of first EQE paper F published

The results of paper F have now been published. The foundation module under the reformed European Qualifying Examination (EQE) was sat for the first time on 21 March, by more than 600 aspiring European patent attorneys. The high pass rate of around 86% underlines the effectiveness of the EQE reform and candidate support measures.

First held in 1979, the EQE serves as the gateway to becoming a professional representative, enabling successful candidates to practice before the EPO, and is critical to upholding high standards within the European patent system.  The EQE has been fully digital since 2021, with more than 14 000 papers sat since then and 3 000 candidates qualifying digitally by 2024. It is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and demanding professional qualifying examinations.

Shift to the modular EQE

The EQE reform is the result of a joint effort launched in 2020 by the EPO and Institute of Professional Representatives before the EPO (epi). The rollout of the new framework continues until 2027, when all five modules – F, M1, M2, M3 and M4 – will be in place. The reformed structure integrates assessment into early stages of required professional training, enabling a more transparent and practice-oriented evaluation of knowledge and skills.

The launch of paper F moves the EQE reform from concept to practice. It is the first module developed under the structural reform and was designed for a digital examination format aligned with the working practices of a modern patent profession. It introduces new assessment techniques for testing declarative knowledge in procedural patent law and claim analysis. Open to candidates with one year of professional experience, the module is designed based on the reform’s principles of progressiveness, modularity and competence-based evaluation. The completion of the first paper F session and the impressive pass rate reflect the progress made with implementing the reform thus far.

Positive feedback from first-time candidates and stakeholders

Initial feedback from stakeholders and from paper F candidates responding to the post-examination survey indicates that paper F was well balanced, both in terms of difficulty and time allocation, with 85% of survey respondents finding the time available sufficient. Among the benefits of the auto-scored module are scalability and the timely availability of results, enabling successful candidates to plan their next steps, including preparing for and sitting modules M1 and M2 in 2026.

Improved flexibility, accessibility and inclusion

The EQE’s digital format offers candidates greater flexibility, with examinations spread over two weeks and breaks between exams helping them manage focus and well-being. It improves geographical and economic accessibility, allowing candidates to sit the exam remotely, which reduces costs, barriers and environmental impact. Further, the format supports inclusion through the accommodations it offers to candidates with impairments or disabilities.